US names China, India and Brazil as climate deal stoppers

The United States has expressed “serious concerns” at the climate deal reached in Bali because it allows the economies of China, India and Brazil to power ahead. A statement from the White House said that it would not engage in negotiations unless “wealthier emerging economies” also commit to serious emissions cuts. While some commentators feel that the US is suing China and India as an excuse to avoid taking action, a chorus of voices has raised concerns that without a reduction in China’s emissions global emissions will continue to increase even if the West hits zero emissions. Ebono contributor, Sara Weate estimates that China’s annual greenhouse emissions will increase to 15 million tonnes by 2020. She points out that this is more than the current total emissions of the US and Europe combined.